J.D. Chaisson

J.D. Chaisson is a professional trumpet player, recording artist, and educator based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Originally from New England, he earned both his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Trumpet Performance from Duquesne University’s Mary Pappert School of Music.

Throughout his career, Chaisson has performed and recorded with internationally recognized artists including Josh Groban, Aaron Neville, Dr. John, Trombone Shorty, Dumpstaphunk, Eric Krasno, and The New Mastersounds. He spent several years touring extensively with the New Orleans-based funk band Dumpstaphunk, performing at major festivals and venues throughout North America, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Toronto Jazz Festival, Jam Cruise, Electric Forest, and Brooklyn Bowl.

Chaisson’s performance career also extends to orchestral and pops settings, including performances with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra’s Pittsburgh Pops and the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra’s Pops series. He remains active in Pittsburgh’s jazz community as lead trumpet with the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and as a recording and session musician.

Chaisson currently serves as Adjunct Professor of Jazz Trumpet at Duquesne University’s Mary Pappert School of Music, where he works with the next generation of trumpet players and professional musicians.

• M.M., Duquesne University
• B.M., Duquesne University